[vc_row el_class=”about-us content-text” css=”.vc_custom_1658400575167{margin-bottom: 70px !important;}”][vc_column width=”2\/3″ offset=”vc_col-xs-12″][vc_tta_accordion style=”flat” shape=”square” color=”black” active_section=”100″][vc_tta_section title=”What are alpha hydroxy acids (AHA)?” tab_id=”1658832202211-af641c3d-6e78″][vc_column_text]AHA’s (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) are water-soluble chemical compounds that are used in order to offer controlled exfoliation and renew skin cells, stimulate collagen production, unclog pores, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, increase natural moisturising factors and fade pigmentation spots. The most famous alpha hydroxy acids are:<\/p>\n
[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”What are beta hydroxy acids (BHA)?” tab_id=”1658832202236-36731fac-d6d1″][vc_column_text]Beta Hydroxy Acids are oil-soluble chemical compounds that are used in order to exfoliate the skin and renew skin cells, unclog pores, control sebum production and reduce inflammation. The most famous beta-hydroxy-acid is salicylic acid and is suitable for combination, oily and acne prone skin. There are also other versions of salicylic acid, like betaine salicylate, willow bark extract and capryloyl salicylic acid or LHA (lipohydroxy acid).[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”What are poly hydroxy acids (PHA)?” tab_id=”1658832257562-881cd9a3-663b”][vc_column_text]Poly Hydroxy Acids are new generation, water-soluble chemical compounds with larger molecular structure than AHA’s & BHA’s, with more hydroxyl groups and therefore more friendly to sensitive skin. Poly Hydroxy Acids provide hydration to the skin, stimulate collagen production, offer superficial, but effective exfoliation, without disrupting its deepest layers, being significantly effective in antiageing and antioxidation. The most famous poly hydroxy acids are the following:<\/p>\n
[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”What is azelaic acid?” tab_id=”1660988333310-2e5bb48d-cb5c”][vc_column_text]Azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid which is produced naturally by human skin and is also found in wheat, rye and barley. Azelaic acid has antinflammatory properties, it is ideal for sensitive skin and rosacea, it soothes redness, while fighting the red marks left by acne (PIE, Post Inflammatory Erythema). Azelaic acid is a keratolytic ingredient, very effective in fading the brown marks left by acne (PIH, Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation), usually in skin of colour, and has the ability to regulate the overproduction of melanin. <\/p>\n low percentages of vitamin c and niacinamide<\/p>\n ascorbic acid not for sensitive skin<\/p>\n [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I use acids and retinoids during the summer?” tab_id=”1661032849778-23e1c0c0-a7f5″][vc_column_text]The answer is yes. In different skincare routines, you can apply acids and retinoids during the summer months. The use of suncreen is essential as well as limiting your exposure to UV radiation, whether you use active ingredients or not. Increased sebum production in the summer months, combined with intense and continuous sweating, can easily clog pores. For that reason, skin needs ingredients that accelerate cell turnover, such as retinoids and acids. Alternatively, you can reduce the high concentrations of the strong forms of vitamin A (retinol, retinaldehyde), or replace them with other, less potent forms of vitamin A, such as retinol esters (retinyl palmitate, retinol acetate) and you can replace alpha\/beta hydroxy acids (AHA\/BHA) with poly-hydroxy acids (PHA).[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I use retinol and acids after a chemical peel?” tab_id=”1661033673368-11e64412-fc81″][vc_column_text]The answer is no. Using acids or retinol after a chemical peel or laser can cause more irritation and increase the chance of burning. After a chemical peeling or laser treatment where the skin is already irritated, it is necessary to use soothing ingredients that will calm the skin, such as centella asiatica, squalane, ceramides, aloe, green tea, oats, etc. In any case, consult your physician.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I combine retinol with acids?” tab_id=”1661033864244-a27a8ff4-4bee”][vc_column_text]The answer is no. When dead cells are removed from the surface of the skin using exfoliating acids and retinol is applied, the potential for skin irritation is increased. Skin irritation should be avoided and ageing caused by inflammation (inflamageing) should be taken into consideration.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I combine AHA and BHA?” tab_id=”1661034439761-ba4a5f0e-6f4a”][vc_column_text]The answer is no. Both AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids) and BHA (beta-hydroxy acids) are exfoliating acids. Their combination can lead to overexfoliation of the skin. The use of products containing both exfoliating acids is safer, as their concentrations, their pH and transport system will have been properly studied so that they do not to cause overexfoliation and irritation.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I combine peptides and AHA\/BHA?” tab_id=”1661034492061-f60af4b6-c6ef”][vc_column_text]The answer is no. The acidic pH of alpha\/beta hydroxy acids does not allow the peptides to be effective.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I combine peptides and vitamin c?” tab_id=”1661034746103-39a4e0d0-bc1b”][vc_column_text]The answer is no. The pH of vitamin c may negatively impact the peptide function.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Does my skin have to peel in order to see results from retinol?” tab_id=”1661034782071-68df6941-aeac”][vc_column_text]The answer is no. It’s a common misconception on the internet that skin should be at its worst before it can be at its best. Flaking is a sign that you should stop using retinol or reduce its concentration or moisturise your skin properly.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I combine Niacinamide (B5) with Retinoids?” tab_id=”1661035022614-904f510b-adc5″][vc_column_text]The answer is yes.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I use vitamin A (retinoids) when pregnant and brestfeeding?” tab_id=”1661035176015-1351d58b-4aea”][vc_column_text]The answer is no. Although research has shown that transdermal absorption of retinoids into the bloodstream is negligible and that harm to the fetus is extremely rare, we suggest, as a precautionary measure, to avoid retinoids altogether. In any case please consult your physician.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”How many active ingredients can I layer in a skincare routine?” tab_id=”1661035438353-72ce5df2-64b2″][vc_column_text]The answer is three. The skin cannot absorb more than that. Of course the molecular weight of the products you want to mix plays a big role, but its best to keep your routine as simple as possible.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I combine alpha arbutin and vitamin c?” tab_id=”1661082717939-9140e830-92e3″][vc_column_text]The answer is yes. Alpha arbutin suppresses melanin production and helps reduce hyperpigmentation spots, while vitamin c neutralizes free radicals, regenerates the skin and provides radiance. This combination aims for a brighter and clearer skin, free of signs of photoageing over time.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I combine niacinamide (B3) and alpha arbutin?” tab_id=”1661082745074-4157337e-ed69″][vc_column_text]The answer is yes. Niacinamide and alpha arbutin are extremely effective tyrosinase inhibitors (tyrosinase: the enzyme that is responsible for melanin production) and can reduce hyperpigmentation spots. [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”What is the correct order to apply skincare products?” tab_id=”1661344237838-9aefad0d-acbe”][vc_column_text]The application of the products should be done according to their composition, from the thinnest to the thickest. Water-based products should be applied before oil-based products.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I combine azelaic acid with niacinamide?” tab_id=”1661344767387-ed86f4f1-d401″][vc_column_text]The answer is yes. The answer is yes. Both azelaic acid and niacinamide inhibit melanin production and soothe redness.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I mix ceramides with other ingredients?” tab_id=”1665954573328-c0a94b75-53bf”][vc_column_text]Yes. Ceramides can be mixed with any other ingredient, especially when using ingredients such as retinoids and acids which can dehydrate the skin with overuse.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I use Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) in the morning?” tab_id=”1666779153900-4684eaef-bf57″][vc_column_text]The answer is yes.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”How to read an ingredients list?” tab_id=”1665955004524-eac7121a-bcfa”][vc_column_text]At the beginning of the ingredients list are the ingredients with the highest concentration, and as the list goes down, the concentration of the ingredients decreases.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Do I have to wash my face in the morning?” tab_id=”1665955153737-bed8df0e-7d4b”][vc_column_text]Cleansing the face in the morning helps to remove the remains of the products that have been used the night before (toners, serums, creams, oils), so that the skin can absorb the products that will be used in the morning routine. If the remains of the products are not removed, there is a possibility that the excess sebum produced in the evening combined with the products applied in the morning will lead to clogged pores for some skin types (combination, oily, acne) and acne breakouts. To avoid dehydration of the skin from morning cleansing, we recommend to use a gentle cleanser, without harsh surfactants and exfoliating agents.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”What is Centella Asiatica?” tab_id=”1666691495858-bb56b49b-b612″][vc_column_text]Centella Asiatica is a medicinal herb, rich in antioxidants, which is also known as Gotu Kola, Cica, Brahmi, Indian Pennywort and Tiger Grass. Legend has it that after being injured, tigers would roll in the plants in order to heal themselves (hence the name tiger grass). Although Centella Asiatica has recently become popular as an ingredient, it has been used for decades for its healing properties. Centella Asiatica has high concentrations of amino acids, beta-carotene and fatty acids and contains components that act as\u00a0immune\u00a0modulators that suppress\u00a0inflammatory cytokines (proteins) and help soothe, hydrate and repair dry and irritated skin. Centella Asiatica also boosts circulation and has been shown to increase collagen production, improving skin firmness and elasticity.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][\/vc_tta_accordion][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" [vc_row el_class=”about-us content-text” css=”.vc_custom_1658400575167{margin-bottom: 70px !important;}”][vc_column width=”2\/3″ offset=”vc_col-xs-12″][vc_tta_accordion style=”flat” shape=”square” color=”black” active_section=”100″][vc_tta_section title=”What are alpha hydroxy acids (AHA)?” tab_id=”1658832202211-af641c3d-6e78″][vc_column_text]AHA’s (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) are water-soluble chemical compounds that are used in order to offer controlled exfoliation and renew skin cells, stimulate collagen production, unclog pores, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, increase natural moisturising factors and fade…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":[],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n
\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”What are peptides?” tab_id=”1660989543189-ba3a3f99-3585″][vc_column_text]Peptides are tiny amino acids that are joined together in order to form a chain. These chains can be of different lengths and comprise of various amino acids each having different effect and benefit. There are peptides that encourage new collagen production, others can inhibit melanin production while others can suppress inflammation and prevent facial muscle contraction.
\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”What is alpha arbutin?” tab_id=”1660990121368-adae84b4-94a0″][vc_column_text]Alpha Arbutin is an extremely powerful antioxidant which is derived from bearberries, blueberries, cranberries, mulberies, pears and wheat. Alpha Arbutin has the ability to inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme that is responsible for melanin production, it fades existing pigmentation spots and inhibits the formation of new ones. It is a glycosylated version of hydroquinone, without its side effects, as it metabolizes slowly to the skin. It is not photosensitive which means that it can be used during the day. Alpha Arbutin has been used for decades in the treatment of melasma and brown marks left by acne (PIH, Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation), without rebounce.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”What is tranexamic acid?” tab_id=”1661019795404-522beddf-bb9f”][vc_column_text]Tranexamic acid is a synthetic amino acid, derivative of L-Lysine, and it is used as a tyrosinase inhibitor. L-Lysine is already present in our body which means that tranexamic acid is biocompatible and can be recognized by our body. Tranexamic acid has antihemorrhagic, anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties and it is very effective in reducing redness and red marks left by acne (P.I.E, Post Infammatory Erythema).[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”What ingredients can I combine with tranexamic acid?” tab_id=”1661020800915-8e2ae338-2106″][vc_column_text]Tranexamic acid can be combined with kojic acid, niacinamide, alpha arbutin, retinaldehyde, vitamin C, vitamin E and ferulic acid.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I mix Vitamin C with Benzoyl Peroxide?” tab_id=”1661031735042-81db119a-4c1b”][vc_column_text]The answer is no. Benzoyl Peroxide has the ability to oxidize Vitamin C, making Vitamin C less inactive.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I combine Retinol with Benzoyl Peroxide?” tab_id=”1661033624415-a08fa58c-457d”][vc_column_text]The answer is no. This combination can cancel each other out.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I combine Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) with Alpha\/Beta Hydroxy Acids?” tab_id=”1661031771275-e30f983c-4a4b”][vc_column_text]The answer is no. Although alpha\/beta hydroxy acids and Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) have an acidic pH, their combination can be irritating to the skin. It is safer to use these two active ingredients in a different skincare routine or to use products containing both ingredients, as their concentrations, their pH and their delivery system will be properly studied so that they do not cause irritation.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I mix Retinol with Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)?” tab_id=”1661032256238-3e4300e5-6a7d”][vc_column_text]The answer is no. Both Retinol and Ascorbic Acid increase cell turnover. Layering these two powerful ingredients together may overstimulate and irritate the skin. The most safe and effective use of these two active ingredients is to apply Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) in the morning and Retinol in the evening. Alternatively, you can combine Retinol with Vitamin C derivatives (Tetrahexyldexyl Ascorbate<\/a>, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate<\/a>) or Ascorbic Acid with a less potent Vitamin A derivative (Retinyl Palmitate).[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I use exfoliating scrubs or acids everyday?” tab_id=”1661032318206-1513edf7-92a0″][vc_column_text]The answer is no. Both physical exfoliation (scrub) and chemical exfoliation (acids) can damage the skin barrier, if used daily, leading to over-exfoliation. Our skin is made up of lipids, natural moisturising factors and dead skin cells (keratinocytes) and they should be kept in a balance in order to protect the skin from external assaults. For this reason, exfoliation with products containing grains or acids should not be applied more than 2 times a week and you should never combine chemical and physical exfoliation together in a skincare routine.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I combine Vitamin C with Niacinamide (B3)?” tab_id=”1661032477116-977d1bdf-ace8″][vc_column_text]The answer is yes. However, because ascorbic acid has an acidic pH (<3.5), while niacinamide has a neutral pH (5.5-7), we recommend combining vitamin C derivatives (Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate) with niacinamide.<\/p>\n